Amid the National Sports Council (NSC) withdrawing its nomination of BCB President Faruque Ahmed as a nominated director, and eight BCB directors submitting a vote of no confidence against him, the stage is now set for a new president of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).

Aminul Islam Bulbul — the celebrated Bangladesh cricket icon now residing in Australia and serving as Development Manager at the International Cricket Council (ICC) — has reportedly agreed to work with the BCB during the interim period until the next election, scheduled for October 2025.

Bulbul previously served at the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) for several years. He has mentored coaches, trained umpires, and successfully developed cricket in countries such as Afghanistan, Thailand, Oman, Nepal, the UAE, and China. 

A widely respected international cricket personality, Bulbul’s involvement, even briefly, could bring about significant reforms and foster positive development in Bangladesh cricket.

He holds the unique record of scoring a century in Bangladesh’s first-ever Test innings — against India in Dhaka — and captained the national team during its historic victory over Pakistan in the 1999 ICC World Cup.

It is worth noting that Bangladesh cricket is currently facing a period of uncertainty. The national team’s performance has plummeted across all formats. Following the political transition in July–August 2024, the then BCB president and several directors resigned. In accordance with its authority, the NSC replaced two of its nominated directors — Ahmed Sajjadul Alam Bobby and Jalal Yunus — with Faruque Ahmed and Nazmul Abedin Fahim. The BCB board subsequently elected Faruque Ahmed as president.

However, since taking office, Faruque reportedly made several controversial unilateral decisions. These include the sacking of national head coach Chandika Hathurusingha, unauthorized transfers of BCB bank accounts, and irregularities in organizing the 2025 Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). The ACC also launched investigations into alleged corruption within the BCB.

In light of these issues, the interim government’s Advisor on Sports summoned Faruque Ahmed and informed him that the government was unwilling to retain him as BCB president. Faruque now has little choice but to resign. However, any government action prior to his resignation may risk violating ICC protocols and could potentially result in Bangladesh facing suspension from international cricket.

Meanwhile, Aminul Islam Bulbul, currently in Bangladesh, has expressed his willingness to serve the BCB, even for a limited period. As someone who has had a long personal association with Bulbul, this writer can vouch for his honesty, integrity, competence, and deep patriotism — in addition to his popularity in global cricket circles.

Bulbul’s outstanding track record suggests he has the capacity to bring about transformative change in Bangladesh cricket. He possesses deep insight into the country's cricketing landscape and has strategic plans for its progress. At this critical juncture, what Bangladesh cricket needs is a realistic plan and an achievable roadmap to move forward — and Bulbul is well-equipped to provide that.

Bangladesh would be fortunate to have one of its most illustrious sons lead its cricket, even if only for the short term.

SMS/